Melbourne's time in the F1 spotlight is always good for a few fancy rumours, and this weekend has already proven to be no exception so I think it's time for me to add a few to the pile. I understand from various social media reports that a 23rd entrant for FP2, referred to as Albert Brown Duck, made some good progress around the particularly wet parts of the track yesterday but did not post a lap time. The only other entrant not to post a lap time was Vettel, and one wonders just how strong either Duck or Vettel might be when FP3 commences around lunchtime. My money is on the duck unless this rain clears up. And I know that both Ferrari drivers are fathers now, but Kimi's seemingly new habit of wearing his race suit 3 sizes too big does seem a bit futile, I don't know that he needs room to grow into it at his age.

Rumours abound also of a secret weapon activated on Thursday evening that is sure to propel Hamilton forward to defend his championship with great gusto in 2016. Apparently a handshake was delivered by an emissary from the US to Hamilton Thursday evening although, despite a fair crowd of onlookers, has so far escaped the notice of the F1 media scrum and local paparazzi. I guess only time will tell......

But the best rumour of all was confirmed late yesterday when I came across some local and international F1 experts enjoying a Mexican feast last evening. People may have spotted the picture below doing the rounds on social media and wondered why anyone would deliberately dress their driver to look like the state fruit of Queensland. Turns out this is some sort of subliminal advertising related to plans being finalised for a bid by that great state to stage an F1 round in the tropical north. What do you think?? click here